Northeast Thailand Tour 4 Days: Issan Excursion

This Issan adventure begins with a journey by private car, minibus, or coach, departing Bangkok for Saraburi, a central Thai province known for its collection of ancient Buddhist temples. Here, visit Phra Buddha Badh, a site revered for its shrine housing the holy footprint of Buddha and the numerous temple bells surrounding the grounds. After having lunch at a local Saraburi restaurant, continue to visit Khao Yai National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore 50 km of hiking and biking trails, spot wildlife, several waterfalls and see the 150m Haew Narok and the famous 20m Haew Suwat waterfalls (from Danny Boyle’s Hollywood hit “The Beach”).

En route, we will make a stop at Wat Thep Phithak, a picturesque hillside temple featuring a monumental seated Buddha statue and explore the bustling fruit market at Klang Dong.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Khao Yai

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Our morning dives into Khao Yai National Park's splendor. We'll first visit the cascading Krong Keo Waterfalls, accessible by a thrilling bamboo suspension bridge. Next, we pay homage at the Thao Suranaree Memorial, built in commemoration of Khunying Mo, a heroine who rallied the townspeople to repel Laotian invaders in 1826 under the reign of King Rama III.

Continuing our cultural immersion, we visit Wat Sala Loi, a unique temple where the main chapel resembles a Chinese junk, constructed with local materials, including the well-known earthen tiles of Daan Kwien. We enjoy lunch in Korat, then head to Pimai to explore the museum and magnificent Khmer temples. It is often dubbed Thailand's Angkor Wat, believed to be built by King Jayavarman VI in the 11th century. Before returning to Korat, we visit Sai Ngam Banyan Grove, home to Thailand's largest banyan tree.

Overnight in Korat.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Korat

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We start the third day with a trip to the charming village of Daan Kwian, set on the Moon River. Renowned for its exquisite earthenware, this village boasts a collection of pottery studios, stores, and museums waiting to be explored. From here, continue to Prasat Phanom Rung, the most significant Khmer temple complex in Thailand with a stunning monumental staircase and a sanctuary considered one of the country's finest examples of Khmer architecture. We will also discover Prasat Muang Tham, a Khmer temple predating even Prasat Phanom Rung and showcasing a collection of well-preserved bas reliefs.

We will have a local lunch and then set off for the northeastern province of Surin.

Dinner and stay overnight at Surin.

Note: The Surin Elephant Round-Up takes place annually on the third weekend of November. Special tour programs are available upon request, with additional charges applicable.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Surin

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart for Si Saket, renowned for its captivating Khmer ruins. Here, we delve into history at Prasat Wat Sa Kamphaeng Yai, an 11th-century temple that transitioned from a Hindu shrine (dedicated to Shiva) to a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in the 13th century. Then move on to Prasat Wat Sa Kamphaeng Noi, a site featuring a laterite stupa and chapel adorned with a lotus pond.

Next, drive on to Ubon Ratchathani, a major city of Issan. After lunch, venture to Ban Pa Ao, one of Ubon Ratchathani's oldest villages. This charming community, said to be settled by Laotian migrants during the reign of King Siri Bun San, boasts a rich tradition of artisanal crafts. Continue at the Ban Kan Lueang archaeological site, where unearthings dating back 2,000 years. Following this experience, we will drive to Ubon Ratchathani Airport for our return flight to Bangkok.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

From Bangkok, you will depart for your journey home, marking the end of your trip. 

Acommondation: NA

Meal: Breakfast